History
Altay was founded in 1914 in İzmir as İstiklal. The initial aim of the club was to unite Turkish youth under sporting activities and to encourage them, because in the 1910s minorities dominated sporting activities in İzmir. Under Ottoman rule, Turkish footballers were unable to compete. Altay was supported by Turkish politicians of the era. Celal Bayar worked very hard in foundation of the club and gave his full support.
Altay has an important place in Turkey's football history. The club had a key role in uniting the Turkish community during the Turkish War of Independence. Many players and supporters of Altay SK lost their lives in the Turkish War. After the Surname Law was adopted, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk gave General Fahreddin Pasha the surname of “Altay”. Altay play in the former Stadium of Panionios and also use the former offices of the same club.
Read more about this topic: Altay S.K.
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